What do you think?
Rate this book
The Dark Queen's Apothecary
Andrei cannot believe his good fortune when he is summoned by the beautiful yet formidable Queen Viorica to serve as her personal apothecary. But he soon learns that things at her dark castle are not what they seem. Haunted by his growing obsession with her, Andrei soon discovers her dark secret. Unafraid, he destroys the competition around him to take his rightful place by her side. Lost to passion and bloodlust, the queen is caught unaware when her adversaries make their move. But no one realized that Queen Viorica created a monstrous king out of the once timid Andrei, bearing a love strong enough to make kingdoms burn.
Read as a standalone or as an addition to The Ancient Ones Trilogy, The Dark Queen's Apothecary explores the boundaries of dark romance with an extra spicy love that bites.
Read as a standalone or as an addition to The Ancient Ones Trilogy, The Dark Queen's Apothecary explores the boundaries of dark romance with an extra spicy love that bites.
156 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 14, 2024
About the author
Cassandra L. Thompson
28 books266 followersGothic horror writer Cassandra L. Thompson has been creating stories since she got her grubby little hands around a pen. When she is not busy managing a house full of feral children (human and canine), you can find her wandering around cemeteries, taking pictures of abandoned things, or in the library researching her latest obsession. She has a B.A. in History and an MLIS, but she ignores her degrees to focus on writing and running Quill & Crow Publishing House, both of which require copious amounts of coffee and Crows.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
July 4, 2024
Instagram || Threads || Facebook || Amazon || TikTok
I follow this author on Threads and quite like her posts. When I saw that she had a gothic erotic horror novella out about vampires, I knew I had to have it. I mean, just LOOK at that cover! THE DARK QUEEN'S APOTHECARY is set in medieval Eastern Europe. At first, it starts out feeling very much like an episode of Castlevania, with Andrei, an apothecary, being summoned to the queen to perform a task that defies the rules of life itself at the behest of a sinister Queen.
Viorica was such an interesting and dynamic character. She reminds me a lot of the heroines in Tanith Lee novels: she is a selfish creature of passion, flawed and a little sadistic, but very insecure and flawed, in a way that makes her fascinating rather than unlikable. Her sort of relationship with Andrei after he (SPOILER) becomes a vampire like her was really interesting to read. The way their roles warped and changed as they did was quite well done, and there are callbacks to numerous other gothic works in the storyline, whether it be Island of Doctor Moreau, Frankenstein, or the legend of Lizabet Bathory.
Fun read and quite dark but not overly so. Mind the TWs.
3.5 stars
January 22, 2024
What a novella this was! 3.5 * for an enthralling read. This does state you can read as a standalone, but i felt i was missing out as i didn't have the background of world building. I did struggle with the speed of change in the MMC character after he became a favoured. It almost felt like he became two different people in a short space of time? That said, this is a very well written book with strong, easily identified characters. I think i may need to check out the other works from this author. I received an advance review copy for free from booksirens.com, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 14, 2024
Vampire erotica, my my!
To begin, I appreciate that Quill & Crow Publishing House, always lets the reader know there is a trigger warning list in the back of all their publications. That being said, this novella is a luscious read of undead erotic. Although this is a complete standalone book, if you have read the Ancient Ones Trilogy (if you haven’t, you should, it’s fantastic) you will get bits, pieces and parts, quite literally, of some old friends. Cassandra L. Thompson, has eloquently and respectfully written an erotic novel for the immortal lover! This is a lavishly ancient tale of Queen Viorica, her Apothecary and her need for power. With an engaging descriptive plot that is intricately woven and full of emotion, gore, lust, sex and of course, blood. I was absorbed immediately. My emotions were pulled at and tingled with delectable desire. Do I love the Queen? Do I hate her? Do I envy her? My cheeks flushed, my heart raced and I was left with the sweet anticipation of more! If you are looking for an erotic romance, that leaves you feeling satisfied, confident and aching for more, this is it!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
To begin, I appreciate that Quill & Crow Publishing House, always lets the reader know there is a trigger warning list in the back of all their publications. That being said, this novella is a luscious read of undead erotic. Although this is a complete standalone book, if you have read the Ancient Ones Trilogy (if you haven’t, you should, it’s fantastic) you will get bits, pieces and parts, quite literally, of some old friends. Cassandra L. Thompson, has eloquently and respectfully written an erotic novel for the immortal lover! This is a lavishly ancient tale of Queen Viorica, her Apothecary and her need for power. With an engaging descriptive plot that is intricately woven and full of emotion, gore, lust, sex and of course, blood. I was absorbed immediately. My emotions were pulled at and tingled with delectable desire. Do I love the Queen? Do I hate her? Do I envy her? My cheeks flushed, my heart raced and I was left with the sweet anticipation of more! If you are looking for an erotic romance, that leaves you feeling satisfied, confident and aching for more, this is it!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 15, 2024
A dark, sensual ride from start to finish. I read this in one evening without moving from my spot once I’d started. It’s the perfect length and pacing to devour on a quiet night.
Lovers of vampires, dark romance, and spice shouldn’t miss this one 🖤
Lovers of vampires, dark romance, and spice shouldn’t miss this one 🖤
January 31, 2024
I received a copy for review and am leaving my opinion voluntarily.
Wow, talk about a lot of atmosphere! The dark, gothic tone is evident from the first page and it just drips from there on out. You’ll feel like you’ve been dropped into the world of Dracula and the Blood Countess.
The twists… there’s quite a few in here and they all are set up very well. It’s the kind of twist that make you flip back and go “OMG, how did I miss this?!” Those are the best kind.
I was shocked at how my feelings on the characters changed. I was so sure I was going to loathe a character from beginning to end but they ended up being one of my favorites! Great character work in here!
Oh and the spice. Be prepared! Those content warnings are there for a reason. But oh so worth it!
Wow, talk about a lot of atmosphere! The dark, gothic tone is evident from the first page and it just drips from there on out. You’ll feel like you’ve been dropped into the world of Dracula and the Blood Countess.
The twists… there’s quite a few in here and they all are set up very well. It’s the kind of twist that make you flip back and go “OMG, how did I miss this?!” Those are the best kind.
I was shocked at how my feelings on the characters changed. I was so sure I was going to loathe a character from beginning to end but they ended up being one of my favorites! Great character work in here!
Oh and the spice. Be prepared! Those content warnings are there for a reason. But oh so worth it!
February 9, 2024
This is dark, Gothic and gracefully written. The world building is rich and elaborate, and I loved the setting.
It's certainly a short book, and ends fairly abruptly which is a shame. I would have liked to see more of the new queendom being established. It's a good vampire story. I recommemd!
It's certainly a short book, and ends fairly abruptly which is a shame. I would have liked to see more of the new queendom being established. It's a good vampire story. I recommemd!
January 24, 2024
What I expected from this book: a short story, vampires and a dark queen. And that is what I have obtained. So really happy about it.
It is the first book I have read by the author, and I read the prologue, the interlude and the epilogue even though I had to, but in my case, the only thing she managed to do was give the book much more intrigue.
And that's what there has been from the beginning, a lot of intrigue and some confusion, which is why it has had me trapped from the first page. And I have to say that seeing that they were long chapters, I didn't have much faith that they would keep me hooked, but if you have doubts about that, be my guest, the chapters are perfect and they keep you hooked.
I really liked the main characters and their evolution, who for one reason or another have grown as people, either learning to love or stopping rebelling against themselves.
It has just the right touch of gore and spice.
The only thing I missed was more development in the love story of the characters, it is an insta love, but at the same time not, but surprises throughout the book, but still... a little more interaction between them earlier, it would have been fine.
Lastly, and most importantly, what I liked the most was the author's prose, her way of writing has transported me to the historical moment in which the events take place, it is very well set and how it is described and written. The author has made me really feel like I am in a palace in 16th century Moldova.
Well, that hasn't been bad, it has its flaws but for such a short story you can't ask for much more, and I love palace intrigues and vampires and especially dark queens so, good reading for me.
It is the first book I have read by the author, and I read the prologue, the interlude and the epilogue even though I had to, but in my case, the only thing she managed to do was give the book much more intrigue.
And that's what there has been from the beginning, a lot of intrigue and some confusion, which is why it has had me trapped from the first page. And I have to say that seeing that they were long chapters, I didn't have much faith that they would keep me hooked, but if you have doubts about that, be my guest, the chapters are perfect and they keep you hooked.
I really liked the main characters and their evolution, who for one reason or another have grown as people, either learning to love or stopping rebelling against themselves.
It has just the right touch of gore and spice.
The only thing I missed was more development in the love story of the characters, it is an insta love, but at the same time not, but surprises throughout the book, but still... a little more interaction between them earlier, it would have been fine.
Lastly, and most importantly, what I liked the most was the author's prose, her way of writing has transported me to the historical moment in which the events take place, it is very well set and how it is described and written. The author has made me really feel like I am in a palace in 16th century Moldova.
Well, that hasn't been bad, it has its flaws but for such a short story you can't ask for much more, and I love palace intrigues and vampires and especially dark queens so, good reading for me.
February 8, 2024
I feel it has a lot of references and the author wanted to show them off. I do believe the enthusiasm she had with those references the story became quite flat for me.
I believe the queen behaves a lot like the red queen from Alice in Wonderland, the count Drakul, also maybe Dragos I think about one character of Game of Thrones (not putting which one to not give spoilers)
On the other hand, the MMC completely transforms after drinking her blood, and as I understand the evolution that comes with the transition, it is mentioned that during the transition the truthful self is the one that takes over the person, and I do believe that if that is not more reflected in the story it can look a bit unnatural.
Nevertheless I would like to check out more of the authors work to have a better impresion of the work.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
I believe the queen behaves a lot like the red queen from Alice in Wonderland, the count Drakul, also maybe Dragos I think about one character of Game of Thrones (not putting which one to not give spoilers)
On the other hand, the MMC completely transforms after drinking her blood, and as I understand the evolution that comes with the transition, it is mentioned that during the transition the truthful self is the one that takes over the person, and I do believe that if that is not more reflected in the story it can look a bit unnatural.
Nevertheless I would like to check out more of the authors work to have a better impresion of the work.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
May 31, 2024
Disclaimer: I do not read dark romance or any romance, really. I was going to skip this novella, but WOW, I'm SO glad I didn't! The Ancient One Trilogy is one of my all-time favorite series, so I knew I had to read this. I have no basis for comparison, but this wasn't overly spicy 🌶. There was an excellent storyline outside of the spice that engrossed me from the beginning. I don't want to give anything away, but I definitely got True Blood, Game of Thrones, Frankenstein, and The Island of Dr. Moreau vibes. All of which I love! The only reason I reduced a ⭐️ was because I wanted to learn more about the magic involved, but I know that's hard to do in 156 pages. I will read anything Cassandra Thompson writes! I think I need to reread the Ancient Ones Trilogy next.
February 4, 2024
Andrei is an apothecary called by the Queen Voivoda Viorica Voichita for a special task. I really needed a pronunciation guide because I'm positive I butchered all of their names.
The Dark Queen's Apothecary is an accompanying novella following Andrei and Viorica's love. It can be read as a standalone but it's best read with The Ancient Ones Trilogy.
I would like to see what the future holds for Andrei and his Dark Queen so there goes The Ancient Ones to my TBR.
“It has been days since I have eaten anything.”
"You needn’t eat of anything but me,” she purred. Before he realized what she meant, she pulled the rest of her skirt up to reveal the beauty between her legs, glistening with her building lust. He almost lunged for her, but she revealed the knife in her hands. He watched curiously as she pressed the blade into the top of her mound, pushing down until she released her blood. It dripped down her folds like a black waterfall as she leaned back onto the bed, legs spread. He realized what she intended and flew to catch every drop. She tasted better than he had imagined, a divine, forbidden fruit. He wanted to savor every moment—the tang of her blood and the sweetness of her juices—exploring her fervently with his tongue.
That had no right being so hot.
"I am too tired for games. Why are you here, apothecary?” “Because I need to fuck you, my Queen.” She hid her smile. “Well, I am sorry to disappoint you. I am far too exhausted for the work that lovemaking requires.” “Who says you have to work?” She slid him a look. “A woman must if she is to be satisfied.” “Then allow me to prove you wrong,” he said, moving closer.
And he proceeded to give her the most bone shaking orgasm without her doing any work.
"I believe you have earned your place as my consort.” He considered her words as he tucked a lock of her own messy hair behind her ear. “Your only?” “Of course!” She let loose an incredulous laugh. “You are all I have ever needed and more.” He smiled, satisfied. “Then I shall happily accept. But only under one condition.” She frowned, suddenly worried. “In life, you are my Queen, and I live to serve you. But in here, in these chambers, I am your King.” Viorica felt warmth return between her legs. How could I want him again so soon? "Deal." "Good."
Plot: ⭐⭐⭐
Smut: 🌶🌶
I like it
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The Dark Queen's Apothecary is an accompanying novella following Andrei and Viorica's love. It can be read as a standalone but it's best read with The Ancient Ones Trilogy.
I would like to see what the future holds for Andrei and his Dark Queen so there goes The Ancient Ones to my TBR.
“It has been days since I have eaten anything.”
"You needn’t eat of anything but me,” she purred. Before he realized what she meant, she pulled the rest of her skirt up to reveal the beauty between her legs, glistening with her building lust. He almost lunged for her, but she revealed the knife in her hands. He watched curiously as she pressed the blade into the top of her mound, pushing down until she released her blood. It dripped down her folds like a black waterfall as she leaned back onto the bed, legs spread. He realized what she intended and flew to catch every drop. She tasted better than he had imagined, a divine, forbidden fruit. He wanted to savor every moment—the tang of her blood and the sweetness of her juices—exploring her fervently with his tongue.
That had no right being so hot.
"I am too tired for games. Why are you here, apothecary?” “Because I need to fuck you, my Queen.” She hid her smile. “Well, I am sorry to disappoint you. I am far too exhausted for the work that lovemaking requires.” “Who says you have to work?” She slid him a look. “A woman must if she is to be satisfied.” “Then allow me to prove you wrong,” he said, moving closer.
And he proceeded to give her the most bone shaking orgasm without her doing any work.
"I believe you have earned your place as my consort.” He considered her words as he tucked a lock of her own messy hair behind her ear. “Your only?” “Of course!” She let loose an incredulous laugh. “You are all I have ever needed and more.” He smiled, satisfied. “Then I shall happily accept. But only under one condition.” She frowned, suddenly worried. “In life, you are my Queen, and I live to serve you. But in here, in these chambers, I am your King.” Viorica felt warmth return between her legs. How could I want him again so soon? "Deal." "Good."
Plot: ⭐⭐⭐
Smut: 🌶🌶
I like it
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 21, 2024
This is a little novella which takes place in a larger literary universe - that being The Ancient Ones trilogy. Which although you don't have to read in order to understand what's going on in this one (I read it as a standalone as I haven't read the others) I felt that I was missing a lot of the context as to what was going on. At least the political landscape.
But the politics are kind of the background for a lot of this story. The main focus is on Andrei, an apothecary apprentice travelling to the kingdom of Moldavia to serve the Queen, Viorica, a vampire practically humming with raw, sultry power. She takes him as one of her 'Favoured' but in return has a terrible task for him to perform which will test his skills to their limits.
For me I was more interested in the events of the prologue, interlude and epilogue rather than the antics of the Dark Queen and her court but I think that's more because I haven't read the preceding trilogy and that if I had then those parts would be nothing more than a nice throwback. I liked the relationship between Andrei and Viorica. A gripe for me was Andrei's development seemed to happen all in a rush and would have made more sense if there had been a small time jump after the interlude. The erotica was well written and not as graphic as I thought it was going to be, however the blood play nearly made me gip. But then if I was a lust-filled vampire a bit of blood play might just be right up my alley (pun intended).
I received an advance copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
But the politics are kind of the background for a lot of this story. The main focus is on Andrei, an apothecary apprentice travelling to the kingdom of Moldavia to serve the Queen, Viorica, a vampire practically humming with raw, sultry power. She takes him as one of her 'Favoured' but in return has a terrible task for him to perform which will test his skills to their limits.
For me I was more interested in the events of the prologue, interlude and epilogue rather than the antics of the Dark Queen and her court but I think that's more because I haven't read the preceding trilogy and that if I had then those parts would be nothing more than a nice throwback. I liked the relationship between Andrei and Viorica. A gripe for me was Andrei's development seemed to happen all in a rush and would have made more sense if there had been a small time jump after the interlude. The erotica was well written and not as graphic as I thought it was going to be, however the blood play nearly made me gip. But then if I was a lust-filled vampire a bit of blood play might just be right up my alley (pun intended).
I received an advance copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 20, 2024
The book started out beautifully written, with the prose having hooked me by the fourth sentence of the prologue.
Alas, that was the best of it for me. The writing seemed clunkier from here on out.
I have not read the other books, although this is billed as a standalone. Maybe having read the other books would’ve made me feel more connected to the characters?
There is a storyline here, not just erotica sex scenes, but the non-sex scenes felt rudimentary and like they were just there to fill space outside of the main focus of the book, which was the sex between the two main characters.
To be fair, this is a novella and might have felt rushed as a story that wasn’t given its due by its very nature as a short book. It was easy to finish in just a couple of hours.
In the end, I didn’t feel connected to the characters. I prefer my smut to be part of a larger, deeper, more engrossing story, with nuanced characters that I can relate to and truly understand.
If you like a quick read that gets right to the lust and erotica, without too much of a story getting in the way, then this is right up your alley.
Again, I loved the writing in the prologue and wish the whole book had been more of the same.
Rating 2 stars because, while there is definitely an audience for this type of book out there, it isn’t for me and I won’t be recommending to a friend.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Alas, that was the best of it for me. The writing seemed clunkier from here on out.
I have not read the other books, although this is billed as a standalone. Maybe having read the other books would’ve made me feel more connected to the characters?
There is a storyline here, not just erotica sex scenes, but the non-sex scenes felt rudimentary and like they were just there to fill space outside of the main focus of the book, which was the sex between the two main characters.
To be fair, this is a novella and might have felt rushed as a story that wasn’t given its due by its very nature as a short book. It was easy to finish in just a couple of hours.
In the end, I didn’t feel connected to the characters. I prefer my smut to be part of a larger, deeper, more engrossing story, with nuanced characters that I can relate to and truly understand.
If you like a quick read that gets right to the lust and erotica, without too much of a story getting in the way, then this is right up your alley.
Again, I loved the writing in the prologue and wish the whole book had been more of the same.
Rating 2 stars because, while there is definitely an audience for this type of book out there, it isn’t for me and I won’t be recommending to a friend.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 5, 2024
Hooked from the very beginning. Drawn in by the cover and blurb, this story sunk its teeth in me (yes, pun intended). A relatively short read that is beautifully written and I had difficulty putting it down. Make sure you check trigger warnings!! Vampires, royalty, scheming lovers, magical blood, Frankenstein like monsters, spice and true love that will leave you breathless.
Viorica, Queen of Moldavia, is an out and proud Vampire that gifts her blood to her favored. After being brought to the castle to serve the Queen, Andrei is immediately enamored by her majesty and all that she is. From her obvious beauty to her grace and lure. Andrei is tasked with creating a monster to which he is successful. As payment for his service, the Queen bestows her blood upon him and immediately takes him into her council. Determined to serve her, he will do whatever is necessary to not only protect her but win her heart, even if it means going against her orders or telling her the truth instead of placating to her.
I absolutely adored the references to Vlad the Impaler and Elizabeth Bathory. Beautifully and masterfully written, this novella has me in a chokehold. The love that is shared between Viorica and Andrei will forever be couple goals!!!
Viorica, Queen of Moldavia, is an out and proud Vampire that gifts her blood to her favored. After being brought to the castle to serve the Queen, Andrei is immediately enamored by her majesty and all that she is. From her obvious beauty to her grace and lure. Andrei is tasked with creating a monster to which he is successful. As payment for his service, the Queen bestows her blood upon him and immediately takes him into her council. Determined to serve her, he will do whatever is necessary to not only protect her but win her heart, even if it means going against her orders or telling her the truth instead of placating to her.
I absolutely adored the references to Vlad the Impaler and Elizabeth Bathory. Beautifully and masterfully written, this novella has me in a chokehold. The love that is shared between Viorica and Andrei will forever be couple goals!!!
February 8, 2024
"The Dark Queen’s Apothecary" by Cassandra L. Thompson proved to be a challenging read initially. The book's beginning was somewhat slow for my reading style, but I powered through, and I was pleasantly surprised by how the story picked up.
This book encompasses various elements that align with some of my favorite genres. The Queen is a captivating antagonist, and the apothecary, initially a weak character, undergoes a satisfying development.
I found myself connecting with characters throughout the book, each contributing another layer to the story. If you enjoyed this standalone novella, I recommend exploring "The Ancient Ones" trilogy by Cassandra L. Thompson.
My primary reason for giving it 3 stars is the slow start and the initial difficulty in getting drawn into the book within the first few chapters. Nevertheless, the overall experience is wonderful for enthusiasts of erotic fantasy.
This review is based on an free ARC that I had the privilege of being a part of, and I express my sincere gratitude to the author and BookSirens.
This book encompasses various elements that align with some of my favorite genres. The Queen is a captivating antagonist, and the apothecary, initially a weak character, undergoes a satisfying development.
I found myself connecting with characters throughout the book, each contributing another layer to the story. If you enjoyed this standalone novella, I recommend exploring "The Ancient Ones" trilogy by Cassandra L. Thompson.
My primary reason for giving it 3 stars is the slow start and the initial difficulty in getting drawn into the book within the first few chapters. Nevertheless, the overall experience is wonderful for enthusiasts of erotic fantasy.
This review is based on an free ARC that I had the privilege of being a part of, and I express my sincere gratitude to the author and BookSirens.
May 1, 2024
I’m usually not a big fan of novellas because I love full length novels where there’s background history and in depth character building, but I absolutely loved this! It was short, sexy and everything I imagine when I think of Vladimir Dracula’s era. I am aware that this is novella is in the same universe as a series that the author has written so I’m definitely going to be checking out the other works.
The writing style was *chefs kiss*. It was detailed but easy to read and I love that even though it was a short story altogether, the chapters themselves were long and always left me wanting more. And I have to say that Andrei and Viorica are one of my top ten favorite book couples. They are equally sweet, loving, sexy and crazy as heck! Definitely my favorite vampire couple, and it’s rare for me to admit that because finding a truly wonderful vampire romance has been hard for me.
Anyways definitely a 10/10 for me! And I definitely want a copy of this on my book shelf in the future!
*I received an ARC for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily*
The writing style was *chefs kiss*. It was detailed but easy to read and I love that even though it was a short story altogether, the chapters themselves were long and always left me wanting more. And I have to say that Andrei and Viorica are one of my top ten favorite book couples. They are equally sweet, loving, sexy and crazy as heck! Definitely my favorite vampire couple, and it’s rare for me to admit that because finding a truly wonderful vampire romance has been hard for me.
Anyways definitely a 10/10 for me! And I definitely want a copy of this on my book shelf in the future!
*I received an ARC for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily*
January 27, 2024
Stepping into Cassandra Thompson's realm for the first time, I felt like I was in for a wild ride. But as the pages flew by, I couldn't shake the feeling of something missing.
Sure, the story promised a lot – a mysterious queen, a humble apothecary, and a whole lot of dark secrets. But being a novella, everything felt a bit rushed. I wanted to dive deeper into the characters' minds and motivations.
Andrei and Queen Viorica's relationship had potential. Their twisted dynamic had me hooked from the start. But with such limited space, it never fully blossomed into something truly gripping.
As for the steamy scenes, they were brief. A bit disappointing for those craving a bit more heat in their reads.
In the end, while it falls short in some areas, it still offers a tantalising glimpse into a world of dark desires and dangerous love.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Sure, the story promised a lot – a mysterious queen, a humble apothecary, and a whole lot of dark secrets. But being a novella, everything felt a bit rushed. I wanted to dive deeper into the characters' minds and motivations.
Andrei and Queen Viorica's relationship had potential. Their twisted dynamic had me hooked from the start. But with such limited space, it never fully blossomed into something truly gripping.
As for the steamy scenes, they were brief. A bit disappointing for those craving a bit more heat in their reads.
In the end, while it falls short in some areas, it still offers a tantalising glimpse into a world of dark desires and dangerous love.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 20, 2024
A gothic romance with a badass immortal vampire queen and an army of Frankenstein-vampires.
We follow a naive Apothecary who is offered a job within the castle walls, but he has no idea what he's in for. After proving his loyalty to the queen the apothecary is named 'A Favoured One' and brought into the queen's inner circle. However, jealousy, revenge and betrayal are around every corner.
👑 Historical gothic romance (M/F)
👑 Blood play
👑 Castle dungeon
👑 Severed Limbs
👑 Army of undead
👑 Betrayal and revenge
This book has some spice, but we're really here for the story and the character development.
Cassandra Thompson does a great job with the setting and vibes. I will definitely read more from The Ancient Ones trilogy that this book is based on.
This book is best read while looking for secret passageways within the stone castle you are working in. Try not to get lost.
We follow a naive Apothecary who is offered a job within the castle walls, but he has no idea what he's in for. After proving his loyalty to the queen the apothecary is named 'A Favoured One' and brought into the queen's inner circle. However, jealousy, revenge and betrayal are around every corner.
👑 Historical gothic romance (M/F)
👑 Blood play
👑 Castle dungeon
👑 Severed Limbs
👑 Army of undead
👑 Betrayal and revenge
This book has some spice, but we're really here for the story and the character development.
Cassandra Thompson does a great job with the setting and vibes. I will definitely read more from The Ancient Ones trilogy that this book is based on.
This book is best read while looking for secret passageways within the stone castle you are working in. Try not to get lost.
January 21, 2024
I feel like I'm missing out by having read this as a stand alone. I read it as the author instructed as I hadn't read the trilogy.
I struggled at first with character names and remembering who was who. But I soon got into it.
I did enjoy it although I think I would have better knowledge of some of the back story had I read the other books (which I'm going to now).
My only criticism is as a novella the characters felt a little rushed so I struggled to connect to them, especially with the development of Andrei.
I think had this been a longer book I would have took to the characters.
Overall I liked it and couldn't put it down, I do wish there was more explanation of the vampire parts but again that's probably me missing information from the other books.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I struggled at first with character names and remembering who was who. But I soon got into it.
I did enjoy it although I think I would have better knowledge of some of the back story had I read the other books (which I'm going to now).
My only criticism is as a novella the characters felt a little rushed so I struggled to connect to them, especially with the development of Andrei.
I think had this been a longer book I would have took to the characters.
Overall I liked it and couldn't put it down, I do wish there was more explanation of the vampire parts but again that's probably me missing information from the other books.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 24, 2024
This is a companion story to the Ancient Ones Trilogy so I was excited to dive in as I love the other books. The prologue and Interlude harkened back to the mythology of the trilogy while laying more groundwork for this particular novella.
What this book has that the other doesn't is toe curling spice. Thompson's world is a tangible winter wonderland, set in an isolated castle in eastern Europe, teeming with blood thirsty royal court members and literally blood thirsty...everyone else. It's wicked and sexy, ticking all the boxes for those who love a beautifully written vampire story ensconced in an intricately built world of gods and monsters. I loved the queen and her many facets and how Thompson gives us the full spectrum of who she is. The vibes are perfect.
I received an arc of this book. My opinions are my own.
What this book has that the other doesn't is toe curling spice. Thompson's world is a tangible winter wonderland, set in an isolated castle in eastern Europe, teeming with blood thirsty royal court members and literally blood thirsty...everyone else. It's wicked and sexy, ticking all the boxes for those who love a beautifully written vampire story ensconced in an intricately built world of gods and monsters. I loved the queen and her many facets and how Thompson gives us the full spectrum of who she is. The vibes are perfect.
I received an arc of this book. My opinions are my own.
February 1, 2024
This book was given as an ARC by Booksirens, and I didn’t expect this story to be so interesting! The book follows Andrei’s path to become the Queen’s apothecary and the relationship that grows between them.
The characters were very complex and also the world building needed a little more details to make it more clear to the readers that are just starting to read the author’s books.
Because the book was a short novella, the author rushed the plot to rapidly get to an ending. The story was very intriguing and needs to be developed in a larger format. The science part, the relationships and the growth of the MCs needed more time and length to be more enjoyable.
The plot is very exciting and different from what I’ve read regarding vampires, so original and with a clever FMC. Sadly I needed more pages.
My rating is 3.5 stars.
The characters were very complex and also the world building needed a little more details to make it more clear to the readers that are just starting to read the author’s books.
Because the book was a short novella, the author rushed the plot to rapidly get to an ending. The story was very intriguing and needs to be developed in a larger format. The science part, the relationships and the growth of the MCs needed more time and length to be more enjoyable.
The plot is very exciting and different from what I’ve read regarding vampires, so original and with a clever FMC. Sadly I needed more pages.
My rating is 3.5 stars.
February 14, 2024
The cover made me read it.
Towards the end, I was just holding my breathe waiting for a double cross.
If you want vampires in their gory glory, with a touch of bdsm and mythology, read this.
I may/may not pick up The Ancient Ones series to read.
This was somewhere between a full story and a novella.
At times, when Andrei/Viorica would unexpectedly switch to modern day speech, e.g. Andrei saying I don't like that guy, took me out from the given timeline to a point I was waiting for one of them to be a time traveller.
I wanted more focus on the apothecary part of the story. The main Frankenstein scene as well as making of the "great potion" are mentioned as key points in the story but we don't witness them. We turn a page and poof, here you go.
So, wasn't the greatest. Wasn't bad. At least it has peaked my interest in reading The Ancient Ones.
Towards the end, I was just holding my breathe waiting for a double cross.
If you want vampires in their gory glory, with a touch of bdsm and mythology, read this.
I may/may not pick up The Ancient Ones series to read.
This was somewhere between a full story and a novella.
At times, when Andrei/Viorica would unexpectedly switch to modern day speech, e.g. Andrei saying I don't like that guy, took me out from the given timeline to a point I was waiting for one of them to be a time traveller.
I wanted more focus on the apothecary part of the story. The main Frankenstein scene as well as making of the "great potion" are mentioned as key points in the story but we don't witness them. We turn a page and poof, here you go.
So, wasn't the greatest. Wasn't bad. At least it has peaked my interest in reading The Ancient Ones.
March 20, 2024
Overall, I enjoyed this short story. A few things to consider though - I picked this up not having read The Ancient Ones, as I understood you could do as so. Unfortunately, I feel like I didn't have a complete understanding of the FMC because I had not read them. I was a little disappointed that it instructs you to skip 3 sections of the book if you hadn't read them. I read them anyways and felt it helped a little, but not much. This is definitely a Dark Romance. I enjoyed that aspect. My only real peeve when reading was that I struggled (badly) to try to wrap my head around how to pronounce the character names. I love a good unique name, but not at the cost of not knowing how to say it. I found it hard to even try to make up how it sounded in my head. Other than that, it was a nice short read with enough ups and downs to keep me engaged.
January 30, 2024
This book is marketed as a standalone or can be read with the series, which I have not read. But honestly I felt really confused with the characters the entire read, which makes me wonder if I would understand them better if I had read previous work.
I also felt like there was no real plot, which I wouldn't have minded if the "spice" was good, but the spice didn't even read well for me. Honestly, it felt rushed and drawn out all at the same time.
I also personally did not enjoy the POV as it's written in 3rd person. And I think that it played a part in my struggle to get through this book.
I was genuinely excited for this read, but unfortunately was let down.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I also felt like there was no real plot, which I wouldn't have minded if the "spice" was good, but the spice didn't even read well for me. Honestly, it felt rushed and drawn out all at the same time.
I also personally did not enjoy the POV as it's written in 3rd person. And I think that it played a part in my struggle to get through this book.
I was genuinely excited for this read, but unfortunately was let down.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 11, 2024
Starting the year with a book about a powerful vampire queen and her human-turned-vampire lover. All is well.
The Dark Queen's Apocathery is a Dark novella about the "voivoda" of an empire, Viorica. Her power is threatened when her court has doubts about the sanctity of the power she holds. With the help of an with an apocathery named Andrei, Viorica establishes her power.
This novella has gore, vampire bdsm, lots of sex, and a bloodthirsty queen. The plot is engaging and the vivid storytelling is so beautiful. Pretty straightforward plot and type of the book you could read in a single setting.
Thanks to BookSirens for the ARC :)
The Dark Queen's Apocathery is a Dark novella about the "voivoda" of an empire, Viorica. Her power is threatened when her court has doubts about the sanctity of the power she holds. With the help of an with an apocathery named Andrei, Viorica establishes her power.
This novella has gore, vampire bdsm, lots of sex, and a bloodthirsty queen. The plot is engaging and the vivid storytelling is so beautiful. Pretty straightforward plot and type of the book you could read in a single setting.
Thanks to BookSirens for the ARC :)
February 19, 2024
A very sexy read! Twisted and sensual in a very moreish way.
Whilst The Dark Queen's Apothecary can be read as a standalone, I do really recommend checking out The Ancient Ones trilogy too, as you'll get a better sense of certain context, and a wider view of the world this story is set in.
The erotic scenes, whilst explicit in detail, were also very pleasing to read. Whilst BDSM and blood are explored in such scenes, they are presented in a very safe and consensual way. There is also a trigger warning index in this book that highlights these things.
A definite recommendation from me, especially if you already love the The Ancient Ones trilogy!
Whilst The Dark Queen's Apothecary can be read as a standalone, I do really recommend checking out The Ancient Ones trilogy too, as you'll get a better sense of certain context, and a wider view of the world this story is set in.
The erotic scenes, whilst explicit in detail, were also very pleasing to read. Whilst BDSM and blood are explored in such scenes, they are presented in a very safe and consensual way. There is also a trigger warning index in this book that highlights these things.
A definite recommendation from me, especially if you already love the The Ancient Ones trilogy!
February 25, 2024
If you're looking for a story with copious amounts of seggs and lacking in the plot department, this should be your next read. I know it's a novella, but the back and forth timelines had me confused while the actual story didn't develop at all. Andrei went from hating Viorica to being infatuated after one fever dream, and that was that. I would have loved a deeper dive into the vampire aspect of the story, but it felt very rushed. The writing was good, but there were also so many characters that I kept having to rack my brain on who was who. There's a lot of potential here, but I wasn't satisfied.
January 31, 2024
Do you love vampires? Do you love erotica? Then you just might like this book!
To start off, I love that it lists the content warning in the back of the book! Secondly, this can be read as a stand-alone, but it's best to read the others before it.
This book is a vampire lovers dream!
This is a wonderfully written book about the Queen Viorica, her Apothecary and the need for all the power. The plot will grip you tightly and pull you in. It's full of so many emotions, blood, gore, erotica etc! I love how Cassandra was able to pull me in and transport me to another time!
February 10, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book definitely let me wanting to know more and yet still left me on the edge of my seat. This book had all the right elements with magic, a bit or gore, lust that turns to love, and betrayal. Hidden secrets and even family revelations can be found in this book. If I could change anything I would add more gore being a horror lover but that is just me. I would also love more to read but that might be because I didn't want the book to end.
This book definitely let me wanting to know more and yet still left me on the edge of my seat. This book had all the right elements with magic, a bit or gore, lust that turns to love, and betrayal. Hidden secrets and even family revelations can be found in this book. If I could change anything I would add more gore being a horror lover but that is just me. I would also love more to read but that might be because I didn't want the book to end.
February 12, 2024
The Dark Queen's Apothecary is an enthralling tale of desire - desire for power, for satisfaction, for revenge, and for blood. When Andrei steps out of the carriage in front of Viorica's castle, he has no idea what to expect, or how his time as the queen's personal apothecary will become the most important role of his life. More than that, Viorica doesn't realize just how vital he really is until well after they're irrevocably, eternally bound.
I thoroughly enjoyed this entrancing, sensual tale of vampiric lust and politics, and I can’t wait to see where their story goes next.
I thoroughly enjoyed this entrancing, sensual tale of vampiric lust and politics, and I can’t wait to see where their story goes next.
February 1, 2024
I greatly enjoy Cassandra Thompson's writing blend of history, mythology, horror, and fantasy, and The Dark Queen's Apothecary is filled with the dark and vibrant storytelling I love. With spicy romance amid a tale of horror, it's a gripping read. This novella ties into The Ancient Ones trilogy. However, it's unnecessary to have read them to enjoy this novella. (But you will read them. They are fantastic too.)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews